Wines Barolo Gianfranco Alessandria - San Giovanni - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Gianfranco Alessandria’s Barolo DOC Cuvée San Giovanni 2016 is a remarkable expression of Nebbiolo, the noble grape variety that reigns supreme in the celebrated hills of the Langhe. This vintage offers exceptional poise, with fruit sourced from prime vineyards around Monforte d’Alba. The wine is aged traditionally, with an extended maceration and maturation in oak, allowing the complex aromas and tannic structure to flourish. The 2016 vintage is regarded as one of the top years of the past decade, uniting freshness and longevity with a finely tuned balance.

Barolo, in the heart of Piedmont, draws from a unique terroir of calcareous clay and marly limestone soils, which provide robust structure and fragrance to the wines. The continental climate, marked by significant diurnal shifts, lends an elegant interplay of power and finesse, fostering ideal ripening of Nebbiolo’s demanding berries. This region has produced wines of great distinction for centuries, often referred to as the “King of Wines and the Wine of Kings”, steeped in tradition and prestige.

Due to its complex and layered profile, this Barolo pairs exquisitely with refined cuisine. Classic regional dishes such as slow-braised beef cheek in Barolo sauce, tajarin with white truffle, or agnolotti del plin would create a harmonious combination. Rich risottos with porcini mushrooms, roasted game, or mature cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Castelmagno will also highlight the wine’s savoury notes and underlying minerality.

For enjoying this Barolo at its best, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow the bouquet of rose petals, dried cherry and subtle spice to unfurl. Serve at a temperature of 17-18°C. This precise service will showcase its firm tannins, lively acidity and multi-faceted depth. With time in the glass, expect tertiary aromas of forest floor and tobacco to emerge, promising a captivating tasting experience.